PhD in Physics-Based Modelling of Active Mobility and Urban Infrastructure Adaptation to Heat Waves Institut Lumière Matière (CNRS & Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1) in France

PhD opening in Physics-based Modelling of Active Mobility and Urban Infrastructure Adaptation to Heat Waves

This PhD is based at Institut Lumière Matière (CNRS & Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1) near Lyon, France. The project sits at the intersection of physics, urban resilience, environmental science, civil engineering, urban planning, and computer science, with a strong emphasis on statistical physics, agent-based modelling, and active mobility (walking, cycling, and micromobility).

The research addresses how cities can adapt public space and street design to increasingly frequent and intense heat waves. The PhD student will extend existing pedestrian dynamics models to include micro-climatic conditions, decision-making, mechanical effects, anticipation, and local discomfort. The work aims to simulate crowd flows and evaluate cooling solutions such as trees and water sprays, with the broader goal of identifying best practices for resilient urban infrastructure.

The project includes modelling, controlled experiments, field data collection in France and abroad, and interaction with operational technical services, urban planners, and stakeholders. Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, or Computer Science, strong programming skills, and a clear interest in climate change mitigation and/or urban resilience. Autonomy and willingness to work across disciplines are important. French is helpful but not required.

Funding: 3-year PhD contract, around 2300 Euros gross per month, with social security included and specific mobility funding.

Application deadline: 2026-06-28. To apply, send a detailed CV, contact details of 2 referees, and a cover letter to [email protected]. Use the specified email subject format [YYY_PhD] as instructed in the post. Informal enquiries are welcome.